Trump Threatens Heavy Tariffs on Russia, Promises Military Aid to Ukraine

President Trump threatened to impose heavy tariffs on countries trading with Russia if a ceasefire deal with Ukraine is not reached, while pledging to provide Kyiv with military equipment worth billions of dollars. Trump warned of tariffs up to 100% if a deal is not made within 50 days. He also mentioned that NATO countries would supply U.S.-made weapons, including Patriot air defense systems, to Ukraine.

Trump's stance marks a shift from his initial attempts to negotiate peace with Putin to openly criticizing him for the ongoing conflict in Ukraine. The announcement coincided with a visit to Kyiv by White House envoy Keith Kellogg, where Ukrainian President Zelenskyy expressed gratitude for the support.

In response, the Kremlin viewed the arms supply through NATO as a continuation of existing U.S. policy towards Ukraine. Despite Trump's tough rhetoric, Russia expressed hope for improved bilateral relations in the future.

Political analysts in Moscow suggested that the Kremlin's restrained reaction reflected a recognition of dealing with a volatile American president, with the possibility of relations changing in the future.

According to the source: NPR.